Wildfire prevention work to begin in Williams Lake soon

WILLIAMS LAKE—Work to keep the Williams Lake community safe from future wildfires is set to begin soon.

Risk reduction activities in the South Lakeside and Fox Mountain neighbourhoods may include:

• removing hazardous trees and flammable shrubs;
• reducing woody debris and other fuels on the forest floor by piling and burning or chipping and grinding the material for off-site use;
• thinning forested areas by cutting smaller trees and some mature trees; and
• pruning low-hanging tree branches to help prevent fire from moving into tree tops.

The Province says that not only will this work ease the work of firefighters should a wildfire take place, but will improve the long-term health and resiliency of forests and enhance habitat for mule deer and other wildlife.